The Blackpool-based independent agency will bring its staff onboard for three nights in May to “combine business with pleasure”.

The agency, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2019, operates a number of brands including The Travel Village, The Cruise Village and The Holiday Village – its homeworking arm which is approaching 100 members.

Phil and Paula said they believed the decision would send a “strong message that travel will bounce back” and stressed their family business “trusts and supports the cruise industry and that it is an extremely safe way to travel.”

Phil added: “MSC Cruises offers an incredible range of ships, destinations and turnaround ports and I know the whole group will get something out of the conference.”

MSC’s UK and Ireland sales director, Steve Williams, said he was “thrilled” to be welcoming the Travel Village team next year. 

“I cannot wait for the entire team to join us and experience the wonderful onboard hospitality and see our brand new terminal in Southampton which will showcase the investment we are making into the UK cruise market,” he said.

Williams said MSC would have launched another two vessels by next spring and would also be close to debuting its first World-class ship - MSC World Europa – and new “ultra-luxury” brand.

“We will have so much to share with the entire team onboard,” said Williams. “I cannot think of a greater reward for Phil’s team after enduring such a tough year and I am personally thrilled in the commitment Phil and Paula are showing to the UK cruise sector and in particular for choosing MSC Cruises as the main supplier to host their conference.”